Express upgrade to Vista program

13/11/2006 - Toshiba is reevaluating its pricing for the Express Upgrade to Windows Vista program. The table has been updated with new information.

With the upcoming Windows Vista operating system set to launch in January next year for consumers (business and corporate clients would already have access to Vista licenses in November), many potential buyers are pushing back their PC purchase. In order not to stifle the holiday buying season, Microsoft has started the Express Upgrade to Windows Vista program. This assures customers who have bought Vista-compatible systems between October 26, 2006 and March 15, 2007 will be able to receive the new software for a nominal fee upon showing proof of purchase. Note that to be eligible, the PC must be designated as a Microsoft Windows Vista Capable machine with a qualifying Windows XP operating system. Other systems may also be able to run the new OS with additional hardware, though users will have to purchase the full retail package of the Vista operating system for these units.

Since the details of the program differ between vendors, we have set up a handy CNET Asia guide for you to determine if your system is eligible for the Express Upgrade to Windows Vista initiative.